OLIVER DOUGLAS JOHNSTONE (DOUG)

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OLIVER DOUGLAS JOHNSTONE (DOUG) It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Doug Johnstone at the St. Boniface General Hospital on Saturday, June 5, 2004, at the age of 88. He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 58 years, Muriel; daughter, Marilyn Loewen (Russ) son, Jim (Lynn) grandaughter Robin; sisters, Evelyn Day, Beth Parkinson, Margaret Wilmont; brother Ronald (Barbara) nieces and nephews; Carlisle, Leona and Daryn Wright, and many other cherished friends. He was predeceased by his parents, James and Marion; brothers, Jack, Allan, and Kitchener. Doug was born and raised in Clearwater, MB where he farmed with his father until the outbreak of the Second World War. He enlisted with the Queens Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada. In 1942, during the raid on Dieppe, Doug was wounded and taken prisoner of war for 32 months. At the end of the war he returned home to his beloved Muriel and they married October 10, 1945. He worked as a grain buyer in Delia, AB and Silverton, MB and in 1950 moved to Decker, MB where he operated a general store until 1960. In 1956 Doug achieved his life-long dream of owning their first farm. In 1967 he was forced to leave farming due to medical reasons. They moved to Winnipeg and Doug was employed as a building superintendent for high-rise apartment blocks for the next 15 years. After retirement, Doug and Muriel enjoyed many trips south during the winter. Doug made three return trips back to Dieppe to observe the anniversaries of the raid. During the pilgrimage of the 60th anniversary, Doug and his fellow veterans were privileged to receive the very first Queens Jubilee medals issued. The people of Pourville made him an honourary citizen of their village, however, the highest honour for Doug, was laying the wreath at the Cameron Memorial in memory of his fallen comrades. Doug was a 60-year member of the Royal Canadian Legion and served in various positions including Zone Commander. He also received the Royal Canadian Legion Order of Merit. In his early years, Doug enjoyed showing six-horse teams at country fairs. Other interests included watching baseball, curling, and listening to the bagpipes. He was actively involved in the United Church, The Royal Canadian Legion, and the Masons/Eastern Star. He cherished his many walks, especially with his companion "Buster." With his good sense of humour and his ability to always look on the positive side, Doug made life-long friends wherever he lived and travelled. The family would like to thank the staff and residents of Westhaven for their love and support of Dad and Mom. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 10 at 2:00 p.m. at the Sturgeon Creek United Church, 207 Thompson Dr., Winnipeg, MB. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, or The Salvation Army. We never lose the ones we love. They are always with us by that devine grace called memory. LEATHERDALE GARDINER 1858 Portage Avenue 949-4872

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 10, 2004